1958 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1977 Datsun 280
To start off, 1977 Datsun 280 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 280 (125 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280 weights approximately 711 kg more than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1977 Datsun 280 (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (71 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
1958 Austin-Healey Sprite | 1977 Datsun 280 | |
Make | Austin-Healey | Datsun |
Model | Sprite | 280 |
Year Released | 1958 | 1977 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 948 cc | 2751 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 44 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 71 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 664 kg | 1375 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2700 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 71 L |